Cardboard, theft-deterrent policeman stolen

A life-sized cardboard policeman, placed in a shop to deter potential shoplifters, was stolen from police in Humberside, UK.

Cardboard, theft-deterrent policeman stolen

A life-sized cardboard policeman, placed in a shop to deter potential shoplifters, was stolen from police in Humberside, UK.

The ironic theft was revealed by the Hull Daily Mail today, after their freedom of information request to police returned a list of items stolen from the police themselves.

"Thieves even stole a life-size cardboard police officers used in a shop as a deterrent for shoplifters. Valued at £125, the cardboard bobby was taken by a man and a woman, who became abusive to staff after buying an item from the shop," the paper reported.

"While the shop assistants were distracted by serving other customers, the pair picked up the heavy-duty cardboard model and fled the store."

Several local UK police forces introduced cardboard police officers in recent years to remind would-be troublemakers that there may be police nearby, or conducting work in the area.

Some areas abandoned the schemes shortly afterwards.

The Mail also reports a drop in recent crimes involving the police force itself. Among the other items stolen in recent years were police radios and bicycles.

"There were also more trivial items such as crumpets and trousers," the report notes.


Via Jeremy Vine

more courts articles

Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van
Man in court over alleged false imprisonment of woman Man in court over alleged false imprisonment of woman
Coronation Street actor William Roache (91) given three months to settle tax debt Coronation Street actor William Roache (91) given three months to settle tax debt

More in this section

Smartwatch with health app. Glowing neon icon on brick wall background Health watch: How much health data is healthy? 
Cork's wild salmon warrior Sally Ferns Barnes looks to the future Cork's wild salmon warrior Sally Ferns Barnes looks to the future
(C)2024 Disney. Disneyland Paris – Disneyland Hotel Re-Opening Watch: Iconic Disneyland Paris hotel re-opens after two year renovation
ieParenting Logo
Writers ieParenting

Our team of experts are on hand to offer advice and answer your questions here

Your digital cookbook

ieStyle Live 2021 Logo
ieStyle Live 2021 Logo

IE Logo
Outdoor Trails

Discover the great outdoors on Ireland's best walking trails

IE Logo
Outdoor Trails

Lifestyle
Newsletter

The best food, health, entertainment and lifestyle content from the Irish Examiner, direct to your inbox.

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited